Beginner riders, particularly those with a fondness for sportbikes, are very lucky these days as there’s a growing number of approachable yet performance-oriented models on the market. A good chunk of these models come from Kawasaki, in particular, with the Ninja 400 and 650 being popular among novice and intermediate riders. In the 2023 model-year, Kawasaki added to this with the Ninja ZX-4RR, a pint-sized, inline-four screamer.
For 2024, it’s continuing the lineup, with the addition of the Ninja ZX-4R. The ZX-4R and its double-R sibling indeed have a lot in common, but the ZX-4R is slightly more affordable as it misses out on some of the farkles found on its more premium sibling. The platform has been proven to offer a solid blend of real-world enjoyment and track potential thanks to its approachable dimensions and manageable weight.
On the performance front, both ZX-4 models are powered by the same 399cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, inline-four cylinder engine with a maximum output of 76 horsepower and 27.7 pound-feet of torque. While these performance figures may not seem impressive, all it takes is the sound of this high-revving motor to catch attention, both on the street and on the track. As for technology, the ZX-4RR takes things up a notch with a bi-directional quick shifter and premium adjustable Showa front suspension as standard. It therefore commands a premium of $10,099 in KRT trim, and $9,899 in standard trim. The ZX-4R meanwhile, retails for $9,399.
Up next, those looking to hit the road and cover long distances, but don’t want to veer away from the Ninja moniker will surely gravitate to the Ninja 1000 SX. This model has been around for quite some time now, and Kawasaki is releasing it once again for the 2024 model-year. Like before, the bike boasts a comprehensive array of touring-focused technology, including Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC), cruise control, and Kawasaki Intelligent ABS (KIBS). Furthermore, it boasts a full-color TFT display complete with smartphone integration via the Rideology app.
Performance wise, it sports the ever-reliable, tried and tested, 1,043cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, inline-four cylinder engine that’s shared with the Versys 1000 and Z1000 naked bike. It delivers a healthy 140 horsepower and 81.7 pound-feet of torque, making for a confidence-inspiring surge of power on both open highways and twisty roads. For 2024, it makes a comeback in Metallic Matte Graphite Gray / Metallic Diablo Black with an MSRP of $13,699.
